Cable assembly for a connector system

Abstract

A connector system includes a chassis that has a framework of panels that defines a plurality of cells extending between first ends and second ends. A clip is coupled to the framework within a corresponding cell. A cable assembly is received in a corresponding cell. The cable assembly includes a first header connector coupled to the framework at the first end of the corresponding cell using the clip and a second header connector is coupled to the framework at the second end of the corresponding cell using the clip. The first header connector has a housing that holds a plurality of contacts. The housing of the first header connector has a first mating interface. The second header connector has a housing that holds a plurality of contacts. The housing of the second header connector has a second mating interface that faces in an opposite direction from the first mating interface. A cable bundle has a plurality of cables that extends between the first and second header connectors. The cables are connected between corresponding contacts of the first header connector and the contacts of the second header connector.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The subject matter herein relates generally to cable assemblies, and more particularly to cable assemblies for connector systems.[0002]Some connector systems, such as network switches or computer servers with switching capability, include large backplanes with several switch cards and line cards plugged into the backplane. Generally, the line cards bring data from external sources into the system. The switch cards contain circuitry that may switch data from one line to another. Traces in the backplane interconnect the line cards and the appropriate switch cards. Other connector systems utilize midplanes to interconnect several switch cards and line cards plugged into the midplane. The midplane includes a printed circuit board to which the switch cards and line cards are connected. The midplane provides connectors on both sides of the circuit board, allowing daughter cards, such as the switch cards and line cards, to be connected on both sides of the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The solution provides a cost-effective, reliable midplane connector system capable of supporting high-speed signals with reduced signal loss and improved heat dissipation, maintaining electrical performance and reducing component temperatures.

Problems solved by technology

Some signal loss is inherent in a trace through the midplane circuit board.

The increased number of traces and the length of the traces introduce more and more signal loss, particularly at higher signal speeds.

Alignment of the connectors is problematic.

Holding the connectors on the circuit boards within tight tolerances increases the cost of the connector system.

Typically, different types of electrical connectors are designed for each of the connector systems, which increases the overall cost of the connector system.

The different types electrical connectors for use in the midplane connector system generally degrades high speed signals passed therethrough due to discontinuities and the asymmetric nature of the connector configuration.

Additionally, the complex design of the connectors, particularly with the connectors used in orthogonal midplane applications, increase the overall cost of the connector system.

With high speed connector systems, the temperature of the components used in the connector system are typically higher, and heat dissipation from such components heretofore has proven difficult.

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